JUNIORS
Who can participate in the Juniors program? Skaters aged 6-17
How can I find out more?
We do not currently have an Juniors program running but if you are interested please contact us to be added to our notifications list so you’ll be the first to know! Follow our social media pages for more details as soon as they become available.
What equipment will my child need?
All skaters require the following equipment: quad roller skates (not inline skates), knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, mouth guard and helmet. Most protective gear for children can be purchased at sporting goods stores such as Canadian Tire and Sport Chek or skateboarding stores such as Beefer’s and West 49. Roller skates can be purchased from online suppliers such as Rollergirl.ca and Retro Rollers. These retailers also sell “fresh meat packages” which include all equipment needed to get started. While skateboarding and hockey helmets are acceptable, please note that bicycle-style helmets are not suitable for roller derby.
For used gear, check Sports Swappers on Fennel in Hamilton, Kijiji, Craigslist or the Used Roller Derby Gear – Ontario’ Facebook group. If you prefer to borrow gear, let us know and we can check our gear library to see if we have what you’re looking for.
BE SURE TO MOULD YOUR CHILD’S MOUTHGUARD BEFORE YOU ARRIVE AT THE FIRST PRACTICE.
Who is running the junior roller derby program?
The junior roller derby program is run by adult league members and volunteers affiliated with Hammer City Roller Derby. All adult coaches are required to have a current Vulnerable Section Check (Police background check) completed. Depending on enrolment, HCRD league members may drop in to practices to assist the coaches. However, a primary coach will always be present. An individual with Standard First Aid training will also always be present at practices.
What are the differences between junior roller derby and adult roller derby?
Both junior and adult roller derby follow the basic rules set out by the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). Junior roller derby is modified to include the following levels:
LEVEL 0-beginners, learning the basics of skating. NO CONTACT
LEVEL 1-continue learning to skate, also learning how to play roller derby. Positional blocking only. NO CONTACT
LEVEL 2-intermediate, continue learning how to play roller derby. Lean blocking is permitted. Typically age 12+ LOW CONTACT
LEVEL 3-advanced, skaters are able to pass adult level WFTDA minimum skills test. FULL CONTACT
Isn’t roller derby a dangerous sport?
Your child’s safety is our number one priority. The coaches will start with safe skating and falling techniques first before moving onto learning to play the sport. Your child will only advance if the trainers are 100% sure they have met all the skill requirements. There is no contact allowed for children younger than 12.
As with any other sport or physical activity, there is the possibility that an injury may happen. There are certified First Aid personnel present at all practices in case an injury occurs.
If I sign my child up, does that mean they are on the team?
The current session is a learn to skate program only. However, as the junior program progresses beyond this session, our goal is to continue training skaters at various levels to play the exciting sport of roller derby so they can represent Hammer City at the junior level. (and YES! be on the team)